White Linen Night is celebrating its 12th year in the Houston Heights. Curious as to how it all got started? Need a plan of action? We’ve got you covered.
A New Orleans Tradition
White Linen Night originated from a centuries-old New Orleans tradition. While traversing the outdoors in the stifling heat (Houston can sympathize), the people of New Orleans decided that decking out in white was a great way to lessen the effects of the sun.
After the 1984 World’s Fair, the revitalization of the New Orleans’ warehouse district was underway. These urban warehouses were turned into unique art galleries. Over the years, as the district continued to experience its rebirth, White Linen Night become a tradition and a party (because, really, why not?). The first official White Linen Night was in 1994, bringing attention to the local culture and arts. Now, every first Saturday evening in August, New Orleans has a block party that is free to all and draws in hundreds.
Why In Houston?
In 2005, after Hurricane Katrina displaced 80% of New Orleans, hundreds of thousands of people sought refuge in Houston. Without a home or a business to return to, many had to start from scratch. No longer refugees, new Houstonians brought their culture, their art and their love to the Bayou City.
After being uprooted by Katrina, Chris and Kay Thayer reopened their jewelry boutique on 19th Street in the Heights. The numerous similarities, like the unique art culture and quirky shops, between the Big Easy and Space City inspired the couple to bring White Linen Night to the Heights. In 2006, one year after the hurricane, 19th Street embraced this new event.
Celebrating Arts in Houston
Since its first year, White Linen Nights has continued to bring the community closer while celebrating the neighborhood. Now one of the largest social events of the year in the Heights, locals don the white clothes to deflect the heat and draw on the New Orleans tradition.
This event is a chance to indulge in the arts and various cultures within our great city. 19th Street is closed to traffic, businesses stay open late, artists show off their work and live music fills the streets.
Where to Be
This year, White Linen Night will be SATURDAY, AUGUST 4th starting at 6 PM. The event is open to all with no admission fee. Head down to 19th Street in your white linens and get to know Houston.
The main celebrations kick off on 19th Street in the Heights on the 200 and 300 blocks, which will be closed to traffic.
Parking
You can park at a few places nearby, including:
- Park at Home and Uber! — Uber is offering a promocode “WLNSUMMER2018” to get up to $10 off your rides to and from White Linen Night. Click here to sign up in advance. There will be an exclusive Uber pick-up and drop-off point on the corner of 20th Street and Ashland.
- Street parking! The Heights is great for street parking, with most neighborhood streets available for spots. Just be sure not to block a sidewalk or a driveway. Keep an eye out for fire hydrants and “No Parking” signs. You should be able to find a good spot without having to walk too much!
Wherever you park, remember to have a designated driver and to never get behind the wheel if you’ve had too much to drink.
Circa Real Estate is proud to be a member of 19th Street in the Heights. Last year was our first time experiencing White Linen Night in our new office. We loved being right in the middle of all the fun! This Saturday, keep an eye out for Circa Real Estate agents! We love our clients and our neighbors!
Helpful Links:
White Linen Night & other WLN-Inspired Events
Featured photo c/o Anthony Rathbun with Culture Map